Fisherman Missing On Fraser River

14 September 2011

(CHILLIWACK, BC) – At approximately 4:45 PM on September 12, RCMP were called to the Peg Leg area on the Fraser River. Three fishermen were fishing when one lost his balance and fell into the river. While trying to retrieve the man, the other two fishermen also fell into the river.

Two of the men made it to shore while the other was unable to retrieve a life jacket that was thrown to him.

Chilliwack Search and Rescue and RCMP are currently on the river searching for the remaining male. "This is the second time in two weeks that this area has been responsible for lost fishermen," said Cst. Tracy Wolbeck. "The circumstances of this incident are strikingly similar to the last one. It’s very sad and tragic."

The RCMP dive team was called out but were unable to search due to the strong current in the water. The RCMP, Air Services, and Search and Rescue continue their search.

Search and Rescue has a boat in the Mission area in the event the man surfaces.

"The river conditions are unfortunately not conducive to a water search which is why Air Services is being utilized," said Wolbeck.